Rehabilitation of concrete structures using advanced materials

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Canadian infrastructure is crumbling and reports of drastic structural failures are becoming more frequent. The current economic crisis demands that we develop innovative materials and cost-effective repair techniques. Advanced materials can be used over traditional methods for repair and in new construction to extend the service life of structures. Thus the key research question to be addressed is: how will advanced materials improve the performance of repaired and new structures? The objective of the proposed research program is to obtain a better understanding of the serviceability/strength, durability performance and monitoring of concrete structures repaired or prestressed using advanced materials including fibre reinforced polymers (FRP), FRP + fibre anchors, fibre reinforced cement composites (FRCC), and self-consolidating concrete (SCC). The research program will comprise fundamental and applied research integrating laboratory and analytical work. Laboratory tests will be performed on medium and full-scale concrete members repaired and prestressed with advanced materials and models will be developed and calibrated to predict the performance of the repaired and prestressed members. The post-repair structural performance and durability of repaired members (beams and slabs) with FRP + fibre anchors and FRCC under static and cyclic loads in a corrosive environment. The Waterloo patented anchor for FRP prestressed members made from SCC or as a strengthening measure for concrete structures. Self-consolidating concrete (SCC) is a high performance highly flowable, nonsegregating concrete that can spread into place without any mechanical consolidation. Reinforced concrete beams and slabs made of SCC and prestressed with FRP tendons will be constructed and tested under static and cyclic loading conditions. The research will train highly qualified personal and will give engineers, architects and owners valuable knowledge on the use of advanced materials for repair and new construction. Thus it will significantly impact the lives of Canadians by means of efficient repairs and durable structures.